Unspeakable Crimes How Prison Uniforms Have Changed Over The Last 100 Years

Of the many privileges prisoners lose, clothing choice is one of the first to go. Prisoners in the US immediately trade in their street clothes for a uniform, which has changed dramatically over the past 100 years. The stereotypical US prison garb might be a black-and-white-striped suit that looks like a pair of oversized pajamas, but uniforms have evolved.

While stripes are no longer the norm (although they are making a comeback), prison fashion still follows the same practical principles: Inmates need to wear clothing that distinguishes them from the staff and the public should they escape. Their garb also needs to be inexpensive and functional, but not too fussy. Correctional institutions can be scary places, and uniforms, bland as they are, at least level the fashion field for everyone.

Prison wear varies around the country, with local officials choosing different colors and styles. And although the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black has brought prison clothing into focus, the attention hasn't necessarily been beneficial - fans of the show started wearing orange jumpsuits, leading one prison to change its uniform guidelines.

Prison Uniforms Were Introduced In The 18th And 19th Centuries

Before the 1700s, it was uncommon for prisoners around the world to wear uniforms. Instead, they could either wear their own clothing or choose from available rags. Only in the 18th and 19th centuries did uniforms become popular.

The outfits were believed to instill discipline, with the hope that such external control would allow for inner discipline and rehabilitation.

Early Uniforms In The US Featured Black And White Stripes

A black-and-white-striped jumpsuit, which has become the stereotypical uniform, was first used in the United States in the 19th century. While the two-tone look has grown rare, it is still the standard uniform in some places today.

A Change In Philosophy Led To A Phase-Out Of Black And White Stripes

Prisons were initially viewed as institutions to punish offenders, but by the start of the 20th century, the consensus was that they should be places to rehabilitate people. This change in attitude meant less emphasis on trying to degrade inmates and more on trying to give them the means to become better citizens.